“We all loved Babs”; Ernie Els shares emotional message after the death of iconic journalist Jeff Babineau
Ernie Els took to social media to share a heartfelt message about renowned golf reporter, Jeff Babineau. The former editor of Golfweek passed away on December 10 at the age of 62.
Babineau, fondly known as 'Babs', was one of the most loved golf journalists. The news of his unexpected passing came as a shock to the golf community. Els spoke highly of the "truly great journalist" as he extended his condolences to Babineau's family.
"This is such sad news. We all loved Babs. He was one of the nicest guys I've ever worked with in the media and a truly great journalist. Sending my sincere condolences and prayers to his family."
He had reshared a post from his manager, Rob Goulet, who had posted a message from GWAA President, Gary D'Amato. Babineau had served as the President of the organization from 2015 to 2017.
Jeff Babineau is survived by his wife, Jane, and three sons.
"I don’t think it’s an age thing" - When Ernie Els spoke on Jeff Babineau's special for Golfweek
In 2012, Jeff Babineau was the editor of Golfweek. He wrote a special on Ernie Els after the golfer secured a surprise win at The Open Championship.
He was 41 at the time and had failed to qualify for the Masters for the first time since 1993. That and his age suggested that it could be the start of his twilight years. However, the world was in for a shock as the South African sealed a one-stroke victory over Adam Scott with a long putter in the play-off to lift the Claret Jug.
In the special written by Babineau, Els spoke of his putting skills (via Golfweek).
"I don’t think it’s an age thing. I was always a good putter; I’m still a good putter. But for some reason there is a lot of doubt at the moment about my technique, the putter I should use, all that stuff. On the short ones, I’m kind of tentative at the moment. I was good in Durban and that’s why I won there. More putting weeks like that, and I’m going to be a contender."
Jeff Babineau left Golfweek in 2017 and did freelancing work for prestigious institutions like the Augusta National, PGA Tour etc. His death is a huge loss to the golfing fraternity and media.